Zlatan Ibrahimovic was in the last knockings of his career and had just sustained a serious knee injury when doctors told him he may never play again.
The then 35-year-old damaged his meniscus and cruciate ligament in his right knee during Manchester United's Europa League tie against Anderlecht last April.
Ibrahimovic, now of LA Galaxy, required surgery and has now revealed the gruesome scars left behind from the career-threatening injury.
The veteran striker posted a picture of his damaged knee on Instagram, captioning it: 'They said it was over. I said NO!'
Ibrahimovic had already enjoyed an illustrious career that spanned across some of Europe's real powerhouses, but retirement wasn't an option. The fire in his belly was still flickering.
After seven months of intense rehabilitation, Ibrahimovic defied the odds and finally made his return for United, coming on as a substitute against Newcastle last October.
The Swedish striker was a pivotal figure in Jose Mourinho's line-up in the 2016-17 season, but he was still feeling the effects of the knee injury and was used scarcely after making his first appearance back.
With Romelu Lukaku on form, there was no room for him and Ibrahimovic decided to follow in the footsteps of greats before him by heading to America for a swansong with LA Galaxy in January.
It has turned out to be more of a revival with Ibrahimovic banging in 15 goals in 17 MLS games.
'They said it was all over,' but how wrong they were.
Ricardrxcav
117
I love this guy and I feel bad for him in that horrible condition.... he's Zlatan ibrahimovic, one of the best footballer in the world, you're a legend bro
hecbcenpr
91
wounded lion is dangerous
zeoabilmyz
61
No matter the extent of injury suffered , the Lion must roar, thanks for the much contributed to the utd's history . Premier league is missing you.